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CollegeVine Expert FAQ

Explore our collection of admissions FAQs. Each answer is expert-approved by our team to help you reach your goals.


How can I improve my PSAT score?

I just got my PSAT score and it's lower than I hoped for. I plan to retake it and I'm aiming for a significant boost. What are some effective study methods or resources that could help me improve?

a year ago

Is a PSAT score of 1460 considered competitive?

Hey everyone, I just got my PSAT score back and it's a 1460. I'm pretty happy with it, but I'm wondering, is this score competitive for things like National Merit Scholarships? What kind of SAT score …

a year ago

Would a college essay about Taylor Swift be off-putting?

Taylor Swift's music has been influential in my life, seriously speaking. It's tempting to write my essay on that influence but I'm worried it might come across as unprofessional or too fangirlish. Co …

a year ago

Are essays a major factor in college admissions decisions?

Hello peeps, I've been hearing a lot about how crucial essays are for the college app. Is that really true? How much do essays actually impact the admission decision, especially at top schools?

a year ago

How to Remove a Recommender on Common App?

In a bit of a pickle here... I've had a change of heart about one of my recommenders. Anyone know how to remove a recommender from my Common App after I've already invited them? Will they be notified …

a year ago

PSAT Score for National Merit: What's the cutoff?

I've heard the PSAT can qualify you for National Merit scholarships, but what score do you actually need on the PSAT to be considered? Does it differ by state or is it a national standard?

a year ago

Is Minecraft a good topic for my college essay?

Hey guys, I've spent a lot of time playing Minecraft and even learned about teamwork and problem-solving through the game. I was wondering, could this be a good topic for my college essay? Would admis …

a year ago

Is a 1090 PSAT score good enough or should I be concerned?

Feeling slightly stressed out here... I scored a 1090 on the PSAT and not sure if that's solid. Can anyone share what scores are typically competitive for college admissions? What's a good improvement …

a year ago

Is there a 'high score' threshold for the PSAT that I should be aware of?

So, I just got my PSAT scores back, and I'm struggling to understand where I stand. What's considered a high score on the PSAT, and how will colleges view it if it's part of my application?

a year ago

Tips for selecting the best Common App essay prompt?

I'm stuck and could really use some help. How did you guys decide on which Common App essay prompt to go with? I'm a junior trying to get a head start on my applications and want to make sure I pick a …

a year ago

PSAT Score Breakdown?

Ok, so I recently took the PSAT and I know that the scores are coming out soon. I keep hearing different things about the scoring. What's the PSAT out of again and how is it broken down by section?

a year ago

Nailing the Common App: What all does it include?

Hey everyone, I'm trying to prep for my senior year and the whole application process. Could someone give me a rundown of what all is included in the Common App? Want to make sure I don't miss any cru …

a year ago

Can I apply to Pitt through the Common App?

Okay, just trying not to get overwhelmed here. Pittsburgh is on my list and I'm hoping I can keep things simple. Does the University of Pittsburgh accept the Common App for their application process?

a year ago

What math does the PSAT cover, and how should I prepare?

Okay, so math isn't exactly my strong suit, and I'm getting a bit stressed about the PSAT. Can someone fill me in on what types of math questions are on the PSAT? Also, if you have any prep tips or re …

a year ago

Yale Common App Inquiry

Yale's my dream school and I’m gearing up for application season. Just want to make sure – Yale's on the Common App, right? Anyone who's applied recently, your input would be super helpful!

a year ago

Previewing the Common App before submission -- How?

I want to double-check my application before I hit submit, but I'm not totally sure how the preview function works on the Common App. Can someone walk me through how to preview the entire application? …

a year ago

Any tips on how to do well on the PSAT?

What's up everyone! I'm taking the PSAT next year and I'm pretty determined to knock it out of the park. Any veterans got tips or resources that helped them score well?

a year ago

How crucial is the PSAT for college admissions?

Just a bit stressed and need some insights. Is the PSAT actually necessary for the college admissions process, or is it more of a practice tool for the SAT? Does it look bad if you don't have a PSAT s …

a year ago

What's the use of a Common App ID?

Kinda confused here, but what exactly is the Common App ID used for? Do I need to keep it super secure, or is it alright if my parents and counselor know what it is?

a year ago

How do I score my PSAT practice test?

I just took a practice PSAT at home to see where I'm at, but I'm a little lost on how to score it correctly. Can anyone guide me through the process or direct me to a scoring tool online?

a year ago
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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.